What Is Lead Hydroxide?
Lead(II) hydroxide, with the chemical formula Pb(OH)2 and CAS number 19783-14-3, is a white, powdery amphoteric hydroxide. It is soluble in both acids and alkalis but virtually insoluble in water and transitions to lead oxide upon heating. It’s often more accurately described as PbO･nH2O due to variable water content.
Uses of Lead Hydroxide
Primarily used in the production of lead dioxide, lead hydroxide is essential in sewage treatment for lead residue separation and is utilized in rubber compounding and the manufacture of absorbents and electrochemical products.
Properties of Lead Hydroxide
This compound has a molecular weight of 241.21, decomposes at 145°C, and is characterized by its insolubility in water and alkalinity in solution. It exhibits a white powder form at room temperature, with a density of 7.41 g/mL.
Types and Handling of Lead Hydroxide
Available primarily for research and development, lead hydroxide is regulated under multiple laws due to its toxicity, necessitating careful compliance when acquiring, storing, and using it.
Other Information on Lead Hydroxide
Synthesis and Reactivity
Produced by adding sodium hydroxide to a lead nitrate solution, it precipitates as an insoluble compound. Lead hydroxide acts as a weak base in solution, forming various lead-containing ions under different conditions.
Toxicity and Regulatory Information
Classified as highly toxic and carcinogenic, lead hydroxide poses risks of lead poisoning, emphasizing the need for proper handling and protective equipment. It is subject to stringent regulations across various health and safety laws, underscoring its hazardous nature.